What to Know About Psoriatic Arthritis in the Knee

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a condition that can affect people with psoriasis, a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches. Psoriasis usually affects your skin cells, but in about 30 to 33 percent of people with psoriasis, it can also attack your joints, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. This is called psoriatic arthritis, and it can lead to pain in your knees and other joints. When it impacts the knee, it causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joint. Here’s a simple breakdown:

What is Psoriatic Arthritis in the Knee?

- Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that happens when your immune system attacks your joints, causing inflammation.

- When it affects the knee, it can make the knee swollen, painful, stiff, or hard to move.

- It’s linked to psoriasis, but not everyone with psoriasis gets PsA, and not all PsA cases affect the knee.

Symptoms in the Knee

- Pain: Your knee may hurt, especially when moving or pressing on it.

- Swelling: The knee can look puffy or feel warm due to inflammation.

- Stiffness: It might feel hard to bend or straighten the knee, especially in the morning.

- Redness or warmth: The skin around the knee might feel warm or look red.

- Fatigue: You might feel tired because of the inflammation.

Causes

- PsA happens when your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joints and skin.

- It’s linked to genetics (runs in families) and can be triggered by stress, infections, or injuries.

- Knee involvement is less common than in smaller joints (like fingers), but it can happen.

Diagnosis

- A doctor will:

  - Ask about your symptoms and if you have psoriasis.

  - Check your knee for swelling, tenderness, or limited movement.

  - Order tests like X-rays, MRIs, or blood tests to rule out other conditions (like rheumatoid arthritis).

Treatment

- Medications:

  - Pain relievers: Over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling.

  - DMARDs: Drugs like methotrexate to slow down the disease.

  - Biologics: Injections or infusions (like adalimumab) for more severe cases.

- Lifestyle changes:

  - Exercise: Gentle movements like swimming or walking to keep the knee flexible.

  - Weight management: Extra weight puts more stress on the knee.

  - Hot/cold packs: Heat to relax muscles, cold to reduce swelling.

  - Physical therapy: To strengthen muscles around the knee and improve movement.

- Surgery: Rarely needed, but options like joint replacement exist for severe cases.

Living with PsA in the Knee

- Rest when needed: Avoid overusing the knee during flare-ups (times when symptoms worsen).

- Use support: Braces or canes can help take pressure off the knee.

- Stay active: Low-impact activities like yoga can help without hurting the joint.

- Manage stress: Stress can worsen symptoms, so try relaxation techniques.

When to See a Doctor

- If your knee is very painful, swollen, or stiff for more than a few weeks.

- If you have psoriasis and notice joint pain.

- If symptoms make it hard to walk or do daily tasks.

Psoriatic arthritis in the knee can be managed with treatment and lifestyle changes. If you suspect you have it, talk to a doctor (like a rheumatologist) for a plan to feel better and keep your knee moving. Let me know if you want more details or help with anything specific!

Trustworthy resources for Psoriatic arthritis:

Below are recommended sources with simple explanations, based on reputable organizations and my understanding of trustworthy resources available as of July 21, 2025: 1. Arthritis Foundation - Website: www.arthritis.org - Why it’s reliable: Offers clear, patient-friendly information on psoriatic arthritis, including symptoms, treatments, and lifestyle tips. They cover joint-specific issues like knee involvement. - What you’ll find: Easy-to-read guides on PsA, treatment options, and managing knee pain. 2. Mayo Clinic - Website: www.mayoclinic.org - Why it’s reliable: Provides medically accurate, straightforward explanations of psoriatic arthritis, including how it affects joints like the knee. - What you’ll find: Information on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options in simple language. 3. National Psoriasis Foundation - Website: www.psoriasis.org - Why it’s reliable: Specializes in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, with detailed but accessible resources for patients. - What you’ll find: Specific info on PsA in joints like the knee, plus tips for managing flare-ups. 4. Cleveland Clinic - Website: my.clevelandclinic.org - Why it’s reliable: Offers clear, evidence-based information on psoriatic arthritis, including how it impacts specific joints. - What you’ll find: Overviews of PsA symptoms, causes, and treatments, with practical advice. 5. NHS (UK National Health Service) - Website: www.nhs.uk - Why it’s reliable: Provides trustworthy, patient-focused information on psoriatic arthritis in simple terms. - What you’ll find: Details on joint symptoms, diagnosis, and management strategies.